I feel that I was very privileged as a child. I did not have to worry about when I was going to get my next meal or if there was going to be violence in the house. I was well taken care of and was a very lucky little girl. Everyday that I attend my job I see children that are not so lucky. There parents are working more than one job just trying to put food on the table. Other children have to see the violence and abuse that happens between their family members and sometimes themselves.
I have a little boy in my classroom whose mother was abused by his father. She stayed in the marriage until she knew the right time to get out. The young boy learned from what his father did and leads to violence to solve problems instead of working the problems out with words. His mother and I have had numerous conversations about his behavior and how to break his habits and what he learned at such a young age. By giving him a stress ball, a quite place to think about something before he reacts and tons of positive reinforcement he is getting better each day.
When looking into violence in other countries the one thing that really caught my attention was sexual violence in Africa. There were so many stories and examples of things that had happened to young children and even grown adults. When taken victim these children can b e apart of sexual violence, including rape, mutilation, and sexual slavery. This was so disturbing to me. These are children and they are asked to do these awful things. Children should be able to be themselves and not have to worry about when they are going to be taken advantage of and who is going to hurt them. I'm not sure how they are about to concentrate on thing that they are suppose to be doing or learning, they are just trying to survive.
To stop this from happening many different governments have stepped in to support these women and children. They are donating money to help educate and provide programs to stop the abuse from happening.
Reference:
Alexis Arieff, (2009). Sexual Violence in African Conflicts. Congressional Research Service. 1-31.
I hope the mother moved on from the house where they were living. Also,the child my need outside help before he starts to build a outside relationship with friends. As his teacher, he may required a lot of attention from you too. Good luck, but keep your eyes out.
ReplyDeleteLauren,
ReplyDeleteLike you, I grew up in a very supportive and loving home. I count my blessings for that! I also see a lot of stressors in the different lives of the many children I serve - as well as in my extended family. It saddens me, but also gives me the motivation and desire to help (as you are doing with the little boy). Children do not have their voice, or are so unlikely to share it if they feel threatened, so we need to help them feel safe and offer them the kindness and ability to share with us - then act on it, as you are doing. Thank you for sharing your story!
Lauren, you definitely live a blessed life. I witnessed domestic abuse in my home. My mom's boyfriend would hit her and she stayed in the situation for years. She would even take him back repeatedly. The only thing that broke that cycle was that he was sent to prison. I really hope that the little boy gets his emotions regulated and learn that violence is not the answer. I think it is very sad what they African children and women have to endure. Its a sad situation and unfortunately there doesn't seem to be any relief in their future.
ReplyDeleteI too liveda life of not wanting for anything but I think that is to my parents having to struggle their life growing up and wanted a better life for me. My heart always goes out to abused individuals and pray for their safety.
ReplyDelete